DHH Resources For Parents and Families

Communication Tips

Communication Tips for working with Deaf and Hard of Hearing People

People who are deaf or hard of hearing use many methods to communicate. Some use lip-reading and speech, while others use sign language. Others may choose to write or use a combination of these methods. Ask the person who is deaf or hard of hearing what you can do to help improve the communication process. Here are some guidelines for effective communication:

        • Face the person.
        • Speak clearly and naturally.
        • Use visual cues.
        • Address one topic at a time.
        • Avoid standing in front of bright lights or windows.
        • One speaker at a time.
        • Reduce background noise.
        • Suggested distance 3-6’ apart.
        • Repeat or rephrase.
        • Use facial expressions and gestures.
        • Check for comprehension.
        • Use short, simple sentences.
        • Provide captioned audio and video

                               Captioning Resources:
      Described and Captioned Media Program
      Media Access Group at WGBH

    • Compiled by HDESD DHH Team

ASL Videos

ASL Videos

Hearing Simulations:

Here are two simulations that give the listener an idea of the impact of different degrees of hearing loss. The volume of the videos is automatically adjusted for the degree of hearing loss.

The Flintstones Hearing Simulator

Cochlear Implant Simulator

This is a simulation of a cochlear implant demonstrating how the quality of sound varies, depending on the number of channels the implant has or uses.

Hearing Simulations:

Here are two simulations that give the listener an idea of the impact of different degrees of hearing loss.

 

Hear The World (song) Hearing Simulator

Hearing Aid-FM Simulation

An open captioned version of our video simulation of what is sounds like to listen to speech throught a hearing aid, in quiet and in noise, and then through a personal FM system.